RUH’S rainbow entrance a welcome move
Those fighting for health equality and inclusivity for LGBTQ+ people have a new place to feel out and proud in Bath.
A new rainbow entrance has been painted at the Royal United Hospitals (RUH) Bath NHS Foundation Trust to demonstrate the Trust’s commitment to providing an inclusive environment for both staff and patients.
The entrance, which was painted this month to coincide with LGBT+ History Month, is one of six planned across the hospital site. The initiative is being led by the RUH’S LGBTQ+ Staff Network.
Chief executive Cara Charlesbarks was joined by members of the executive team and LGBTQ+ Staff Network for the opening of the rainbow entrance.
Cara said: “We want to ensure that everyone feels they belong at the RUH, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected characteristics.
“Sadly, we know that there are stark healthcare inequalities for our LGBTQ+ community with as many as one in seven LGBTQ+ people avoiding healthcare for fear of discrimination.
“That’s why visual signals such as our new entrance are so important to spread the message that we are here for everyone.”
Steve Dunne-howells, chair of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network said: “We’re so proud to have our first rainbow entrance painted for all to see and can’t wait to see others popping up around the hospital site. Visuals like this can provide reassurance that the RUH is an open, non-judgemental organisation.”
Other initiatives at the RUH include a rainbow flag outside the main entrance and NHS rainbow lanyards and badges, which staff can wear.